Museums include the interesting and dazzling Creetown Gem Rock Museum, which is one of the most comprehensive collections of gems and minerals and has taken over 50 years to assemble. You can also explore the atmospheric Gemstone Cave and watch gemstones being polished in the museum's workshop.

Outdoor folk and nature lovers will be in absolute paradise. Nature sites, forest trails, sailing centres, scenic walks and rambles are to be found all around the area. Amazing mountain biking at Kirroughtree and some challenges climbs for road bikes - but worth the effort to see such fantastic scenery. Galloway Forest Park is home to the UK's first Dark Sky Park - one of the best places in Britain to enjoy the night sky. On a clear night you can see over 7000 stars here with the naked eye. And to remind you of a fabulous holiday, why not look for a special gift to take home in one of the many craft and gift shops that are all close at hand.

Guests of Auchenlarie and Anwoth Holiday Parks can pick up a discount voucher for a round of golf at a local golf course - just ask in Reception for details.

Live traditional music can be found in several local pubs, the region plays host to both the Galloway and the Portpatrick Folk Festivals and there are folk clubs which meet regularly in Dalbeattie and Stranraer. The region hosts many galas in the local towns throughout summer. If you fancy going to the theatre, The Swallow Theatre, set in idyllic countryside, Scotland's smallest professional theatre, where you can enjoy live music, drama, poetry and readings.